A/N: I know, I know, I am such a bad updater!!! I'm sorry everyone, it just takes me a long time to get my ideas written out on paper! Anyways, here is chappy 17...hope you enjoy!

Chapter 17: Lasting Hope

Jade could barely move a single muscle in her body, as she lay completely helpless on the dirt-infested floor. Her hands were still tightly wound around the concrete pole, her fingers dangling helplessly in the air. Tears constantly flowed down her now pink cheeks, and her blue eyes gave off a blank expression. They were no longer filled with that 'crystal' hope...they were now dull. Two long, deep slashes were inflicted on both of Jade's shoulders and she winced in pain, as blood ran down her arms. Her hair was mopped against her face, the two buns that she normally wore were now broken free. Small scratch marks were clearly evident on her face and the rest of her body, though they weren't all that deep. Two blades were spinning rapidly in front of Jade's face, one blue and the other one yellow... who knew that a blade could be such a horrible weapon. That same irritating laugh rang out, indicating to Jade that Carlos was enjoying her pain. Jose stood close by as well, sneering down at Jade with complete disgust.

"What's the matter with you!" Jose demanded, eyeing Jade suspiciously. "You have thousands of wounds...and yet...you're still not screaming in pain!"

Jade only shook her head slowly from side to side, she refused to scream...she knew it only made them enjoy her torment more. Her face burned with pain, as her warm tears seeped into the endless cuts. Jade felt completely torn apart and she could feel her faith leaving her body.

"Please...please stop..." Jade's pleading voice rang out, hoping to talk some sense into the two boys. She knew that they wouldn't listen to her, but there was nothing else that she could say...nothing else that she could do. Her begging was quickly cut off, as she felt one of the blades ricochet off of her knee, instantly causing her to wince in pain. Jade wished that she was back with the Bladebreakers...back with Tyson, Rei, Max, Kenny, and...'Kai,' she thought trembling with pain. She should've known better than to leave without telling someone, it really was her own fault for having to go through this pain. Jade could hear Carlos and Jose address their blades one last time, as the two blades suddenly shot towards her with incredible speed. Jade let one last tear fall down her cheek and she closed her eyes, praying for one last miracle. Suddenly a strange aura seemed to shower over the defenseless girl and Jade felt a comforting presence surround her. Although she was in immense pain, she found herself slowly becoming calm, her heart beating at a normal rate now. Unexplainable warmth seemed to drift over Jade's fragile body, as she slowly opened her blue eyes. A twinkle seemed to run through Jade's eyes again and a smile spread across her soft lips. A giant black wing hung gently above Jade's head, as the tip of the feather caressed Jade's injured arm softly. Jade recognized the familiar creature blazing before her; it was Dazzler...her faithful friend. Dazzler gazed down at Jade with deep concern, her yellow wolf eye almost revealing signs of tears.

"Dazzler," Jade whispered reaching her hand to touch her soft purple fur. Jade caught a glimpse of the two attacking blades, but never ceased to flinch. She knew that she was now safe. With a single swipe of Dazzler's massive claw, the two blades were thrown backwards; instantly causing them to stop spinning. Jade felt like laughing at the two boys seeing the shocked expressions plaster on their faces, but she was too weak. Carlos and Jose couldn't believe what they were seeing, a bit beast actually emerging from within its blade to protect its blader. And that wasn't the strangest part about it either, it was able to emerge without her blade being used...there was no way that that was possible!

"What's the matter guys...too scared to finish what you came out to start!?" Jade replied, her voice gaining small ounces of strength. "I guess I'm not such a weak little girl after all, am I!"

Jose and Carlos both shook their heads in terror, the tables had definitely turned. Dazzler glanced down at the now trembling boys and partially curled her lips, showing off her sharp pointed fangs. Carlos and Jose didn't stand around after that, as both boys shot off towards the closest exit they could find. Although Carlos knew it would be dumb of him to stick around, he also knew that another not so friendly fate would be dealt upon him later. Voltaire would definitely not be happy with the two of them, and they were definitely going to get punished for this. Jade smiled at the backs of the retreating boys, before her head began to throb. Her face scrunched up in pain and she began to feel slightly dizzy. Dazzler could also feel the pain that her master was going through, as she let out a low, moaning howl before retreating back into her purple blade.







The sound of Dazzlers depressing howl could be heard down the dark street, echoing off the concrete walls. Nobody seemed to pay much attention to it, thinking that it was only a bunch of kids playing with some noisy toys. There was however one person who seemed to raise his ears at the penetrating sound. Kai's dark maroon eyes scanned the area in front of him, trying to determine where this sound was coming from. He was still out looking for Jade and yet he still found no signs of her...but this was definitely the first. Kai could easily recognize the sound, and he knew that it was Jade's bit beast...Dazzler. But where was it coming from and why did it sound like it was in such tremendous pain. Kai could feel fear rushing through his veins, fear of what he might find when he came upon Jade. His maroon eyes shot frantically throughout the crowd of people but nothing seemed to catch his eye...where was she? Suddenly Kai could feel a strange aura escaping from within the depths of his pocket, as it drifted its way throughout his body. Kai could feel his eyes grow heavy from the comforting warmth and he slowly gave in to it, as he drew down his eyelids. Hesitantly Kai ran his hand down his right leg before resting it firmly on his blade within. The tips of his fingers began to tingle slightly, as Kai noticed a faint red light in the darkness of his closed eyes. He could feel people brushing past his stable body, muttering rude comments under their breaths. Kai took no heed to these outside distractions and continued to focus on the ever-growing light. Suddenly, within the depths of his thoughts a giant bird emerged, wings spread elegantly. The warmth rushed over Kai's eyelids and he immediately recognized the fiery red image...it was Dranzer! A loud screech escaped from its golden beak and Kai instantly knew that Dranzer was speaking out to him. To anyone else it would've sounded like any other bird calling, but to Kai; he knew that Dranzer was trying to help him...trying to find Jade.

'Follow the Light, I will guide you.'

The silent words echoed through Kai's mind, as he slowly reopened his eyes. The soothing words continued to ring in Kai's ears, and he knew that he was the only one who could hear the voice of the phoenix. Unsure of what he was doing, he immediately reached into his pocket before withdrawing his Dranzer blade. As Kai wrapped his masculine fingers around the small blade, a red light suddenly illuminated from it. Kai was still confused on what was going on, as his dark pupils widened further. He ran his thumb over the small bit, as that same red light shot off towards the distance. Kai instinctively followed the directional glow with his eyes and he could feel the warm presence of Dranzer beneath his palm. Kai immediately understood what this strange light was...knowing that somehow Dranzer knew where Jade was at. Kai didn't spare a single second, as he ran down the crowded street, practically shoving people if they stepped in his way. The light coming from Dranzer seemed to zigzag in all directions before finally darting around a final corner. The small amount of gravel on the sidewalk caused Kai to skid slightly, as he quickly took the sharp corner. Kai could feel his heart pounding steadily against his chest and he breathed heavily. His bluish-gray bangs hung lightly against his moistened forehead, his maroon eyes staring towards the red light, which had now stopped moving. It suddenly rearranged itself and formed into a miniature replica of Dranzer. The red phoenix reflected in his eyes as it gave another loud screech; and as quickly as it appeared, it disappeared back into its blue blade. A small glisten ran across the Dranzer bit, as Kai carefully placed it back into his pocket.

"Thanks Dranzer," Kai muttered from under his breath. He then slowly raised his gaze up towards the old warehouse looming before him. Kai's eyes narrowed in suspicion, something didn't feel right. The warehouse looked old and abandoned, and even though he trusted the light of Dranzer; he couldn't understand why Jade would come to such a rotted old place. 'Well, I guess it can't hurt to check it out.' Thought Kai with a slight shrug of his broad shoulders. He kept a steady pace as he came to what looked like the main entrance into the building. Hesitantly he placed a firm hand against the metal door, before finally shoving it open. A draft of malodorous air crept up into Kai's nostrils, as he wrinkled his face up in disgust. This was definitely not a place where he'd visit on a regular basis. Shadows crept along the endless walls, taunting him to step further into the dark unknown. Kai squinted his maroon eyes, trying to get a better view in the surrounding darkness, but it was no use...he couldn't see anything. Suddenly a small cry rang out from within, immediately causing Kai's ears to perk up...somebody was in there. He instantly began to quicken his pace, as he ran his fingers over the cold walls; trying to direct himself in the darkness. Soon enough he found himself in a wide-open area and noticed that it was completely empty. Empty that is, except for one small figure, which Kai could barely see laying helplessly in the middle of the vast floor. His gut told him that it was some dead creature in which he definitely didn't want to see but...his heart told him else wise. Unsure of why he was so drawn to this eluded figure, he slowly began walking towards it. Kai noticed a faint light shining down from the window slates on the warehouse roof, giving him a clearer view of what was before him. Suddenly Kai froze within his tracks, feeling his heart beat feverishly with realization. His eyes were drawn open in horror and he felt his throat run dry. Kai could hardly believe what he was encountering, as he slowly approached the slumped figure.

"Jade," Kai's voice spoke out, breaking the disturbing silence. What looked like a mopped head of hair moved slowly and soon those familiar crystal blue eyes gazed up at him. Her expression was soft even with the small cuts running across her face, and a faint smile slowly spread across her pink lips. Jade watched as Kai knelt down before her, noticing his eyes reflecting signs of concern...an emotion she hadn't seen in him in a very long time. She wanted to speak, but she found herself being choked by the tears that had once again begun to fall down her face. Kai continued to fight with the confused emotions running through his mind, as he hesitantly wrapped his arms around Jade's back. Jade, feeling the sudden embrace of Kai, instantly buried her face within his shoulder.

"Kai," Jade whispered in a soft tone of voice, her body quivering beneath his grasp. "I knew you would come." Kai suddenly could feel Jade go completely limb and he knew that she needed to get to a hospital in a hurry. He glanced down at the frail girl and ran his cheek along her soft hair, as he began to feel unwelcome tears forming in his maroon eyes. Gently reaching around the pole of which she was tied to, he quickly unwound the knot, and felt her feeble arms drop towards the cold concrete. Giant slashes were visible on both of her shoulders and Kai recognized them as being torn open by a blade. Another giant cut was gaping open on her left knee and he knew that she would be unable to walk. Kai couldn't believe the rough shape Jade was now in and he felt worry along with anger growing through his veins. He knew somebody did this, and he swore to himself that they wouldn't get away with it either! Jade moaned in pain, as Kai ran a hand gently down her ridged spine. Slowly he scooped one arm beneath Jade's knees, and rested the other one upon her mid back, before gradually lifting her and rising to his feet. Jade wrapped her left arm around Kai's neck for grip, and she rested her head lightly against his warm chest. Jade slowly closed her eyes, having not enough strength to keep them open. Kai sighed heavily and realized that this would be harder than he thought. Jade was very light, but the nearest hospital was a few miles away and Kai knew that it wouldn't be an easy trip. As Kai's mind focused on any efficient way to get to the hospital, a door creaking open could be heard from behind him. Kai quickly spun around and noticed two men standing near the entrance from where he had recently emerged.

"What's going on in here!?" One of the men demanded, before stepping forward to witness the situation. His eyes immediately opened widely and his own eyes bore a look of concern.

"Someone hurt her," Kai replied before the men were able to blame him for the suspicious scene.

"All right...come with us," the second man insisted, his blonde hair falling over his eyes. "I think we better get her to a hospital...and fast."





"And the second match goes to Rei and the Bladebreakers!" DJ Jazzman's voice echoed throughout the over packed arena. Rei easily claimed another victory, as the crowd went wild with frantic cheering. Mr.Dickinson clapped himself and smiled proudly at his victorious team. He was very fond of their superior skills, although he too still felt worried about the missing members. He shifted uncomfortably in his seat, as a man cleared his throat from beside him.

"Mr.Dickinson sir, I have some urgent news." Mr.Dickinson glanced over at the tall young man standing beside him and noticed his chestnut eyes set very sternly. Mr.Dickinson suddenly began to feel uneasy and he somehow knew that this young man didn't have comforting news. "Would you mind coming with me sir."

Mr.Dickinson gave a small nod, as he lifted himself up with the help of his sturdy cane. He felt slightly wobbly from sitting for so long, as he followed the blonde haired man down the flight of stairs. The man seemed to walk at a firm, steady pace and he kept his eyes focused on the floor before him. Mr.Dickinson tried his hardest to keep up with him, his shorter legs working overtime. Suddenly the man's brisk movement stopped and he turned abruptly on his right heel. Mr.Dickinson came to a stop as well and noticed that the man had taken him to the entrance into the center arena. He could see the players bench perfectly positioned on the floor, and noticed Max heading up to finish off the third match. He gave a huge sigh, causing his mustache hairs to flutter slightly, before turning to face the younger man before him.

"All right then, what is it you needed to tell me." Mr.Dickinson asked in a gentle voice, although small hints of demand could be heard as well. He was very eager to hear what this news was, even though his gut told him that it wasn't going to be pleasant.

"I'm sorry to interrupt you Mr.Dickinson, sir," the man replied with a small bow of his head. "But the BBA has just recently received a phone call from a young man by the name of Kai Hiwatari...and I believe he is a member of your team."

"That is correct," stated Mr.Dickinson blankly. "Is he all right?"

"I'm afraid he wouldn't tell us anything, in fact he refused to." The man replied, crossing his arms over his chest. "He demanded to speak to you, and you only...I suggest you return his call immediately." The tall blonde held out a small piece of paper, which Mr.Dickinson took a hold of rather quickly. "That is all sir," the man replied with a small bow before retreating down the narrow hallway.

Mr.Dickinson fumbled with the crisp paper between his stubby fingers, as he noticed clear black ink written boldly across the surface. With the aid of his right hand, he shifted his spectacles further on his nose and glanced intently at the 7 numbers written upon it. It was clearly a phone number and Mr.Dickinson tried to figure out whose number it was. Where on earth was Kai? Suddenly Mr.Dickinson's brows rose up in shock, as he realized the identity to which this phone number belonged to...the hospital!







"WHAT ROOM IS SHE IN!" Tyson shrieked at the top of his lungs, causing everybody in the waiting room to focus their eyes upon him. Mr.Dickinson had indeed called Kai back at the hospital and was told that Jade was in bad shape...whatever that meant. Mr.Dickinson, instantly taking the role of the father figure rushed down to the hospital, but not before grabbing the rest of the Bladebreakers. The boys seemed to be in more of a panic than Mr.Dickinson...especially Tyson. He was now yelling straight out at the receptionist, as he practically fell over top of the desk counter. The brunette blinked in complete shock, never before had she encountered such a frantic young man. She continued to tell Tyson that she could not give him a room number unless he clearly stated the patient's name. Kenny, Rei, and Max all sighed in utter disbelief and they could easily feel their cheeks burning up. Mr.Dickinson smiled at the young boy, before placing a firm hand on his shoulder.

"Forgive me Ma'am, he's just worried about his friend." Mr.Dickinson replied calmly, pulling Tyson gently away from the counter.

"I understand that, but I won't be of much help unless you state the young lady's name," she replied with an understanding smile.

"Of course, her name is Jade Tomei," Mr.Dickinson answered, as he cleared his throat. The young lady began to type a few words upon her keyboard, before glancing back up with a smile.

"She would be in room 203," came the young lady's reply. "Up one floor on the elevator and to your left."

Mr.Dickinson nodded and gave a soft thank-you before turning his back to face the boys. His eyes were rather shocked when he only met the faces of 3 of them, and he looked at them questioningly. They all knew exactly what he was about to ask, as Rei pointed his arm towards the elevator.

"He's way ahead of you," he stated with a small smile. Mr.Dickinson shook his head, and noticed the very eager Tyson already standing impatiently by the elevator. He was already banging his fist against the red 'up' button, while people continued to stare. Mr.Dickinson couldn't help but smile at the young boys concern, as he walked towards him briskly.

"I'm so embarrassed," Kenny finally spoke up, shaking his shaky brown head. Max smiled and patted Kenny on the back, as the 3 boys followed suit. Finally the elevator doors slid open, revealing the small congested boxlike area inside. Tyson immediately dashed inside and began shoving his finger against the buttons, thinking it would make the elevator move faster.

"Come on, come on, come on, come on, come on!" Tyson continued to repeat impatiently, as the door slowly began to slide shut. "I knew we should've taken the stairs!"

"Tyson...calm down buddy!" Max replied, holding back on Tyson's arms so that he couldn't press the tantalizing buttons anymore.

"Yeah Tyson, you're only making things worse." Rei insisted, standing near the far corner of the elevator. His arms were hanging loosely on each side and he stared intently up at the small indicator buttons. They only had to go up one floor, and yet it seemed to take ages for the elevator to even move an inch. The elevator suddenly jolted, causing Kenny to give out a small cry; thinking that the elevator had broken down. Finally the doors opened itself yet again to the outside world, causing a huge sigh of relief to escape from Kenny's lips. Tyson didn't spare a single second before dashing out into the wide-open hallway. Frantically he began running towards the left, searching desperately for room 203. Mr.Dickinson, Rei, and Max all sighed as the headed down the right wing.

"Tyson!" Kenny yelled as quietly as he could, so as to not disturb the working nurses. "I believe you're going the wrong way!" Tyson paused and slowly glanced up at the hospital room before him, as he read the number 311. Frustration grew even further on his face, as he quickly ran past Kenny; knocking him to the ground.

"Thanks Chief!" Tyson yelled, before disappearing into a room. A small white hospital bed was clearly visible in the medium sized room, and laying on the midst of it was Jade. Every single emotion possible seemed to run through Tyson's veins at that moment, as he completely threw himself onto the injured girl.

"Jade!!!" Tyson yelled, immediately wrapping his arms around Jade's thin neck. The weight of the boy caused Jade to cough in pain, as she desperately tried to take in more air. Tyson's body on the other hand was pressed firmly up against Jade's chest, making it down right impossible for any air to make it to her lungs.

"Ty...son, could...you...ple...ase...

"Get off of her!" Kai replied sharply, interrupting Jade's struggling words. His maroon eyes narrowed deeply and he took a rough hold of Tyson's shirt collar. Without any effort, he quickly pulled Tyson off of Jade, allowing her to breathe freely again. Tyson rubbed the back of his neck, as he stuck his tongue out at the blue-haired teen. Kai only gave a small glare back at him, before resuming his position against the wall. His eyes continued to stare back at Tyson, and Tyson knew that he best keep a safe distance from the injured Jade. Max took a seat on the edge of Jade's bed, a teary smile present on his face.

"Hey Jade," Max sniffed, as he wiped the tears with his hand. "How are you?"

Jade only smiled at the caring face of the blonde-boy, and she could clearly remember the last time he had comforted her. She slowly reached over and took a hold of his warm hand, causing that usual friendly smile to reappear on his face.

"I'm fine Max...honestly," Jade replied, while giving equal glances at the 4 other boys. "And, I wanted to apologize."

"Apologize...for what!?" Tyson exclaimed, leaning carefully on the edge of the bed beside Max.

"For not telling you guys where I was going...the least I could've done was leave a note or something," Jade answered rather silently.

"It's over now, there's no use worrying about it," Rei spoke up in a soft tone. "We're just happy that Kai found you."

"My words precisely Rei." Mr.Dickinson replied in a pleasant voice, as he sat in the navy armchair beside Jade's bed. He leaned lightly upon his sturdy cane, and he looked over Jade with concern. Everybody noticed the rough shape that she was currently in and they were all quite curious of what exactly happened. Jade didn't look nearly as bad as she did when Kai had first found her and she definitely wasn't in as much pain. A bundle of bandages were wrapped on each of Jade's shoulders, easily indicating where her major cuts were inflicted. Her knee was also bandaged up and each time she moved a little, she could feel the stitches pulling against her skin. She had to admit though; she was pretty darn lucky. Overall she was only left with 25 stitches, which was hardly anything compared to what they could've been. Her shoulders had definitely fared the worst though and each slash had 10 stitches, while her knee only had 5. Her face had some small cuts here and there, but they were nothing serious and the doctor said that they would be gone in a few days time. Suddenly Kenny cleared his throat, causing all eyes to be redirected at him.

"Ummm, I was just wondering, if...well..." Kenny slightly muttered, trying to figure out what to say. He was fumbling with his hands, and he glanced nervously up at Jade. "What...what exactly happened?"

Everybody seemed to agree on Kenny's question, although they all seemed to remain quiet. Jade on the other hand smiled warmly back at Kenny and nodded her head slowly.

"Ok...I'll tell you," Jade began slowly, as she shifted rather uncomfortably under her white sheets. "You will?!" asked Tyson, rather shocked at the reply.

"Of course, after all, you guys are my teammates...you deserve to know what happened." Jade answered matter-of-factly. She slowly began to pour out every small detail of where she was and what had happened. Although, she seemed to pause when Tyson asked who exactly had inflicted her with the wounds. "Well...it, it was Jose, Carlos, and..." Jade stopped instantly and her eyes quickly shot up to meet those of Kai's. He already looked angry, knowing that his old teammates the 'Bladesharks' had done this to her. His bluish-gray bangs fell lightly over his eyes and he stared at Jade, demanding her to tell him whom else was with them. Jade turned her crystal eyes away from him, she didn't know how to tell him that it was his very own grandfather that had done this to her.

"What!?" Tyson screeched, disrupting the awkward silence yet again. "You mean to tell us that Kai's old teammates attacked you! Ohhhh, just wait till I get a hold of them!"

Everyone glanced a Tyson with a shake of their heads, while Jade let out a small laugh. She couldn't believe how wonderful it was to be back with the Bladebreakers again; and to think, a couple weeks ago she swore to herself that she wouldn't enjoy being a part of their team.

"Jade...you never finished," Rei started, his golden eyes reflecting the light. "Who else was with them?"

Jade could feel her heart begin to pound against her chest, as Rei asked this question. For some reason she just couldn't tell them that it was Mr.Hiwatari...she couldn't. She ran her fingers nervously along the sheets, before she gave a small shrug of her shoulders.

"I...I don't know," Jade finally answered, her crystal eyes glistening slightly with tears. "They were hidden in the shadows...I couldn't see them." Her eyes met Kai's yet again and he looked down at her with a shake of his head. She knew that he didn't believe her, and sooner or later she'd have to tell him. Jade watched as Kai clenched his hands into tight fists, as he briskly exited the room. Everybody noticed the sudden gesture of Kai, but everyone knew that it was best to leave him alone. Rei on the other hand noticed the fire burning in Kai's eyes and he knew something was going on.

"I'll be back," Rei replied quietly as he smiled down at Jade. He exited out of the room just as quickly as Kai, and saw him walking steadily towards the elevator. "KAI!" Rei yelled, trying his best to grab his fellow comrade's attention. Kai paused and slowly turned around, as Rei walked towards him.

"Kai...where are you going?" Rei asked, looking at Kai with curiosity. Kai had his head bowed over, his bluish-gray bangs easily shadowing out his eyes.

"It's nothing Rei," Kai answered sternly, before continuing his walk towards the elevator. "I just need to pay a visit...to some old friends of mine!"

A/N: YAY! Another chapter completed! Wow, 17 chapters and still going strong(LOL)...and its all thanks to all you guys out there for reviewing my chapters, and keeping me motivated to write more! There is one other thing that I must mention...awhile ago I asked for OC's to form some new teams, once the Bladebreakers arrive at the 'Beynamite' tournament. I actually made up the teams, and I posted them under my 'Need characters for Beynamite' post. Well, see ya later!